NotebookLM, an AI tool I’ve relied on for months, operates differently than many others. Unlike ChatGPT and similar large language models, it doesn’t scour the internet for answers – it only works with information *you* provide.
Recently, Google added new “fast research” and “deep research” features, fundamentally altering how the tool functions. My initial reaction was disappointment, as these additions seem to undermine the very reason I chose NotebookLM in the first place.
Essentially, these new modes transform NotebookLM into a more conventional AI assistant, capable of independently searching the web for information. This broadens the scope of sources used for generating summaries, quizzes, and other outputs, but at a cost.
Previously, the onus was entirely on the user to curate a knowledge base. You diligently gathered PDFs, links, and documents, feeding them directly into NotebookLM. Now, the software proactively seeks out external sources, shifting the dynamic.
The “fast research” tool offers quick suggestions for relevant sources, while “deep research” compiles a more extensive report. However, reviewing these automatically-sourced materials proved cumbersome. A simple search for study materials for a personal training certification yielded a “Free NASM Practice Test” alongside other links.
Expanding the initial list revealed the source of each link, but required extra clicks and navigating away from the core NotebookLM interface. This process felt counterproductive, as the act of *finding* and vetting sources is integral to my learning process.
I value NotebookLM precisely because it doesn’t do the work for me. It’s a powerful tool for synthesis and organization, but it doesn’t replace the critical thinking required to identify reliable information. The risk of encountering questionable sources, like a readily-available Reddit thread, is a concern.
However, the update isn’t entirely unwelcome. A crucial dropdown menu allows you to specify whether NotebookLM should search the web or your Google Drive. This is a genuinely useful addition.
I already maintain a meticulously organized Google Drive, with dedicated folders for each project. This new feature streamlines the process of importing relevant materials, eliminating the tedious task of manual uploads.
This integration with Google Drive is the type of functionality that made me a loyal NotebookLM user. It enhances the tool’s core strengths – organization and synthesis – without sacrificing the user’s control over the information it processes.
